GradingAug 09, 2023
IGI Names New Director of Operations, Business DevelopmentBrought to you by
Did You Know? The Vital Role of IGI: The International Gemological Institute
In a world where the sparkle of a gemstone is only as brilliant as the trust behind it, IGI's purpose is truly invaluable.
Brought To You By The International Gemological Institute (IGI)
Over the past 10 years the diamond and jewelry industry has evolved at a dizzying pace. During that time IGI has played a pivotal role in diamond authentication, reporting, education, and advocacy for both professionals and consumers. Today, more than ever, it’s critical to understand the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats present in our industry. To that end IGI has proactively launched initiatives to serve every sector from mine to market. This article explores IGI's purpose, the broader role of grading laboratories in the jewelry industry, and how IGI is elevating this sparkling sector.
Role #1. Authentication First: A Shield for Luxury Brands and Consumers
Did you know that nearly all the world’s luxury brands have relied on IGI for decades, entrusting the institute with the screening of millions of carats of melee, to ensure the pieces they sell contain no mixed goods? In an industry where trust is paramount, IGI's protection of our most celebrated brands is invaluable. The shield of protection IGI provides is also available to every retailer, as well as consumers buying on the secondary market, offering a level of security that is indispensable in the world of high-value jewelry. There is no substitute for trust and certainty. From the most prestigious boutiques on Fifth Avenue to consumers in Middle America, IGI’s commitment to accuracy and transparency is a linchpin that elevates the jewelry industry as a whole.
Role #2. Bulletproof Reporting: Transparency and Assurance
One of IGI's primary services is unbiased reporting. This begins with affordable screening of loose melee - sorted, separated, and sealed by category. It continues with a variety of loose diamond and gemstone reports. However, in today’s diverse market the most useful service IGI offers may be grading reports for finished jewelry. In this age of mixing natural and lab grown stones, along with color in creative pieces, a one-page IGI jewelry report detailing every aspect of the piece is a no-brainer. Designers and retailers even co-brand with IGI, placing their logo on the document, and can request an appraised replacement value for insurance purposes. Whether describing standard sapphires or exotic materials from bixbite to zoisite, a single ironclad document from IGI raises consumer confidence when buying jewelry and elevates trust in our industry. Furthermore, IGI’s appraisals are accepted by all major insurance companies, providing peace of mind that a consumer’s precious possessions are adequately insured. The unique possibility of co-branding with IGI enhances the credibility and value of the appraisal process, making it a win-win for all stakeholders.
Role #3. Education and Awareness: Stay informed!
In our rapidly changing sector, getting the latest information is essential. IGI is at the forefront of education and awareness campaigns to keep professionals up to date on the newest developments and educate consumers on the importance of authenticity and verification. If you are not subscribed to IGI’s GemNews newsletter and the IGI GemBlog, you can sign up for weekly information to your inbox that will keep you up to speed. The Institute is constantly disseminating both basic knowledge and the latest breaking news over those channels, social media, press releases, webinars, seminars, and online and in-person courses worldwide. By providing a platform for learning and discussion, IGI empowers industry professionals to make informed decisions. And by streaming knowledge and promoting transparency, IGI contributes to the growth of a more informed and trusting consumer base.
Role #4. Industry Advocacy: Supporting all compass points.
In addition to unbiased independent reporting, IGI has stood for nearly a half-century as a staunch advocate for all stakeholders in the jewelry industry. Whether you are operating a small store in a strip mall, a luxury boutique on Fifth Avenue, a family-owned business or an online sales platform IGI advocates for your proposition and your place in our industry. From the first roots in Antwerp’s famed diamond district in 1975, to a seat on the World Diamond Council and 30 IGI locations operating around the world today, IGI champions the cause of all entities who responsibly sell gemstones and jewelry. As the first institute to hold ISO accreditation in the grading of both natural and lab grown diamonds, the Institute's commitment to authenticity, transparency, and education benefits all sellers in our industry and their specific sales propositions.
Conclusion
The International Gemological Institute (IGI) plays a pivotal role in the jewelry industry by upholding the values of authenticity, transparent reporting, education, and support. As the guardian of trust, IGI ensures that luxury brands, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers can navigate the jewelry market with confidence. With comprehensive reporting, commitment to education, and advocacy for all stakeholders, IGI is an industry cornerstone, elevating fellow professionals to new heights of credibility and integrity.
In a world where the sparkle of a gemstone is only as brilliant as the trust behind it, IGI's purpose and contributions are truly invaluable.
More on Grading
The Latest
MajorsDec 12, 2024
Mark Henry Appoints New Director of SalesCarrie Forman joins the brand to guide it into the next phase of growth with major and independent retailers in the U.S. and abroad.
AuctionsDec 12, 2024
Tom Brady’s Watches Top $4M at Sotheby’s AuctionThe highest-grossing lot of the sale was the retired QB’s Rolex Paul Newman Daytona “John Player Special.”
SourcingDec 12, 2024
Grizzly Emerald Auction Garners $22.4MRecent expansion initiatives at the Zambian emerald mine have shown strong production numbers, said Grizzly founder Abdoulaye Ndiaye.
Brought to you by
Advocacy and Excellence: How Jewelers of America Is Committed to Elevating Our Industry For over a century, Jewelers of America has been the voice of the industry and valuable resource to jewelers across the country.
SourcingDec 12, 2024
De Beers Announces 2024 ‘Shining Light’ Award WinnersThe competition awarded 12 designers, each from a country where De Beers recovers diamonds, with business support and tuition assistance.
Weekly QuizDec 05, 2024
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
CollectionsDec 12, 2024
The Jared Atelier x Vera Wang Collection Emphasizes EleganceThe high jewelry collection features 14 one-of-a-kind pieces, with serpent and ribbon motifs winding their way through the collection.
CrimeDec 11, 2024
Former Tiffany & Co. Factory Supervisor Sentenced for Stealing Precious Metals A federal judge gave Benjamin Preacher 59 days in jail, plus 10 months of home confinement and two years of supervised release.
Brought to you by
Protecting Your Sparkle: Why Screening Has Become Essential While no reputable jeweler would knowingly sell lab-grown stones as natural, it's a growing possibility.
AuctionsDec 11, 2024
Sotheby’s Important Watches Sale Fetches $16.6MThe offering included vintage Rolexes, timepieces worn in “Titanic,” Steve McQueen's watch, and a special Citizen pocket watch.
CollectionsDec 11, 2024
Stephanie Gottlieb Brings Natural Diamonds to StudsThe 13-piece “Stephanie Gottlieb x Studs” collection is the piercing studio’s first fine jewelry offering to feature the gemstone.
IndependentsDec 10, 2024
Sauer Opens First U.S. StoreThe Brazilian jewelry brand made a home on New York City’s Madison Avenue with exclusive pieces only available at the location.
SurveysDec 10, 2024
Jewelry Among Top Sellers on Cyber Monday, Says AdobeAn Adobe Analytics report explored the rise in mobile shopping, the popularity of Buy Now Pay Later options, and peak shopping hours.
Events & AwardsDec 10, 2024
AGTA Launches Scholarship for University of Arizona Geosciences StudentsThe inaugural Dick Greenwood Memorial Scholarship in Gems Science will cover the fall 2025 and spring 2026 semesters.
Events & AwardsDec 10, 2024
JA New York To Debut 2 New Pavilions at Spring 2025 ShowA Piazza Italia pavilion will feature Italian designers and manufacturers while “MJSA Showcase” brings over a piece of the MJSA Expo.
CollectionsDec 09, 2024
Ray Griffiths’ First Coffee Table Book Spans 5 Decades of Design“Ray Griffiths: The Works” tells the story of the master jeweler’s career, which started with an apprenticeship in Australia at age 15.
MajorsDec 09, 2024
Thomas Davis, Grant Mobley Join WJA Foundation Board Davis is the director of business development at Select Jewelry Inc., and Mobley is the jewelry and watch editor at the Natural Diamond Council.
FinancialsDec 09, 2024
Movado’s Q3 Sales Down 3% Amid ‘Challenging’ EnvironmentThe retailer has been upping its marketing spend to drive revenue growth and brand awareness.
IndependentsDec 06, 2024
After 44 Years in Business, This Wisconsin Independent Is ClosingMike Straub and John Treiber opened Treiber & Straub in 1980 with the goal of bringing Milwaukeeans the best jewelry brands.
TrendsDec 06, 2024
Pantone’s Color of the Year Is a Delicious MousseThe color for 2025, “Mocha Mousse,” embodies thoughtful indulgences and everyday pleasures.
CollectionsDec 06, 2024
Piece of the Week: Cocoerow Fine Jewelry’s ‘Kokoro’ PendantThe Yoruba word for ant, “Kokoro” embodies the strength of womanhood in ant society while highlighting responsible sourcing.
FinancialsDec 06, 2024
Roberto Coin Acquisition Gives Watches of Switzerland a Boost in H1The retailer’s jewelry sales doubled, with branded jewelry performing especially well.
FinancialsDec 05, 2024
Signet Jewelers’ Q3 Sales Slide Amid Slow Engagement Ring Sales, Tech IssuesThe jewelry retailer addressed the lab-grown diamond “disruption,” the price of gold, and its holiday weekend performance.
SurveysDec 05, 2024
Consumer Confidence Rises Again in NovemberA more positive view of the current labor market boosted the Conference Board’s index last month.
Events & AwardsDec 05, 2024
Michael S. Krzemnicki to Receive 2024 Bonanno AwardThe director of the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) will be honored for his impact on gemology and dedication to advancing the science.
Supplier BulletinDec 05, 2024
Join Us For Color's Premier Show: 2025 AGTA GemFair TucsonSponsored by 2025 AGTA GemFair Tucson
Events & AwardsDec 05, 2024
BIJC Announces 2024 ‘Rock the Jewels’ Awards WinnersAt the annual event, in its second year, the organization honored those making remarkable contributions to the jewelry industry.
TrendsDec 05, 2024
Amanda’s Style File: A Blue, Blue, Blue Month Celebrate December babies with 20 pieces of jewelry featuring this month’s birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon.
